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もけけんぬ / CC BY-SA 3.0
UPCOMINGFREE ENTRYMatsuri· Annual
Shirone Otako Gassen
白根大凧合戦
Niigata · Chubu
A kite-fighting festival over 300 years old in Shirone, Niigata, where giant artisan kites clash above a river with the aim of knocking the opponent's kite into the water.
- Dates
- June 3–7Dates follow the event's usual annual pattern — confirm with the organizer before you travel.
- Location
- Niigata · Chubu
- Nearest station
- No nearby station — bus from Niigata Station (BRT to Aoyama, then Shirone line)
- Crowd level
- Regional attendance
- Entry
- Free entry
Happens every year
What to expect
The air buzzes with excitement as enormous kites, some over 7 meters long, soar and clash above the Nakanokuchi River, their vibrant colors and designs stark against the sky.
Best viewing tips
Position yourself along the riverbanks for the best view of the kite battles. Late afternoon offers dramatic lighting as the sun casts long shadows over the river.
How to get there
From Nagoya Station · ~5h 53m by car
Your turn
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